FBI Offers $150,000 Reward for Rey E. Grabato II in $650 Million Investment Fraud Case

Added to FBI Most Wanted Fraudsters List

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Rey E. Grabato II, who is wanted in connection with an alleged massive investment fraud and tax scheme. In August 2026, FBI Newark announced that Grabato had been added to the Bureau’s new Most Wanted Fraudsters list. Federal authorities say approximately 2,000 investors were defrauded of more than $650 million between February 2018 and January 2022.

National Realty Investment Advisors

Grabato served as president and majority owner of National Realty Investment Advisors, LLC, commonly known as NRIA. The company operated as a real estate investment business and offered investors opportunities connected with a fund reportedly used to acquire equity interests in companies investing in real estate assets. Federal prosecutors allege that Grabato and others misrepresented important information about the value of the NRIA investment fund.

The alleged scheme attracted approximately 2,000 investors, including hundreds from New Jersey. Authorities contend that investors relied on misleading representations concerning the investment fund and its value. The enormous amount of money involved ultimately resulted in a major federal securities and wire fraud investigation.

More Than $650 Million at Issue

According to the FBI, the alleged NRIA scheme involved more than $650 million from investors. The conduct described by federal authorities occurred over approximately four years, from February 2018 through January 2022. The number of investors and amount of money involved make the case one of the most substantial fraud cases currently highlighted through the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters program.

The charges against Grabato include both securities and wire fraud offenses. Authorities continue seeking him so the criminal case can proceed through the federal court system. The charges remain allegations unless and until proven in court.

Separate $26 Million Tax Scheme

Federal authorities also accuse Grabato of participating in a separate scheme involving the Internal Revenue Service. According to the FBI, the conduct occurred between November 2007 and August 2022 and was intended to obstruct, impede, and impair IRS efforts to collect approximately $26 million in outstanding federal tax liabilities.

The tax allegations substantially predate the NRIA investment scheme and continued through 2022. Federal prosecutors allege that Grabato participated in efforts designed to prevent the United States government from collecting the outstanding tax obligations. This conduct resulted in an additional conspiracy charge connected with defrauding the United States with respect to tax.

Federal Arrest Warrant Issued

On October 12, 2022, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Grabato by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Newark. He was charged with conspiracy to commit securities fraud, securities fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States with respect to tax. He has remained wanted while federal authorities continue efforts to locate him.

The FBI Newark Field Office is handling the fugitive investigation. Authorities have continued publicizing Grabato’s case and seeking information concerning his current location. His addition to the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters list in August 2026 brought renewed national attention to the search.

Possible Location in the Philippines

According to the FBI, Grabato has ties to the Philippines and may currently be living there. His potential presence outside the United States gives the fugitive investigation an international dimension. Information from individuals who have encountered Grabato in the Philippines could be particularly valuable to investigators.

Authorities may also be interested in information concerning his residences, businesses, financial relationships, travel, associates, or other connections. Individuals who maintained contact with Grabato after the federal warrant was issued in 2022 may possess information capable of helping investigators determine his movements. Any credible information should be provided directly to law enforcement.

FBI Most Wanted Fraudsters

On August 13, 2026, FBI Newark announced Grabato’s addition to the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters list, which publicly identifies individuals charged in major fraud cases. At the time of the announcement, the FBI described Grabato as the second person added to the newly established list. The Bureau simultaneously announced the reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

The designation places additional public attention on Grabato and the allegations surrounding the NRIA investment operation. Federal authorities continue seeking information from people in the United States and abroad who may know his current location. His possible ties to the Philippines remain an important component of the search.

$150,000 Reward Offered

The FBI is offering up to $150,000 for information leading to Rey E. Grabato II’s arrest and conviction. Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts can submit a tip to the FBI or contact the FBI Newark Field Office at 973-792-3000. Information concerning his possible location in the Philippines, international travel, associates, or financial activities may assist investigators.

Members of the public should not attempt to independently locate or apprehend Grabato. Possible sightings and other information should instead be provided directly to appropriate law-enforcement authorities. The FBI continues seeking public assistance as the federal fugitive investigation remains active.